Simone Tebet Announces 2026 Senate Run for São Paulo

Simone Tebet, currently Brazil's Minister of Planning, has officially declared her candidacy for the Senate representing São Paulo in the 2026 elections. Announced during a press conference at the National Forum of State Secretaries of Planning in Campo Grande on March 12, 2026, Tebet plans to resign from her ministerial role by the end of March to focus on her campaign, although the exact date remains undecided.

Tebet emphasized her deep personal and political ties to São Paulo, highlighting that she completed her master's degree there and garnered significant electoral support in past elections. She described politics as a mission and expressed her commitment to a calm but determined electoral process vital for Brazil's future.

Her decision to run followed discussions with President Lula and Vice President Alckmin, with initial informal talks beginning during a trip to Panama on January 27 and a formal request emerging on February 3. Tebet has not confirmed whether she will leave the Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB) to run under the Brazilian Socialist Party (PSB).

A veteran politician, Tebet was the first female mayor of Três Lagoas, served as vice-governor of Mato Grosso do Sul, and has been a senator since 2014, during which she played a pivotal role in significant political events such as the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff.

She acknowledged the importance of family support in her decision, especially her mother's desire for her to remain close to home. Allies have encouraged her candidacy, given her strong São Paulo voter base and political experience.